Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta brings the best of Caribbean and Italian flavors together in one dish. Jerk-seasoned shrimp, plenty of colorful bell peppers, a splash of lime and a rich creamy sauce make this pasta unforgettable. It is one of my go-to recipes when I want a quick meal that is bold and comforting.

When I first made this for friends, there were no leftovers leftovers The jerk shrimp truly makes this dish stand out and it is a fresh take on family pasta night.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: The perfect shape to catch the creamy sauce Choose a good quality wheat pasta for best texture
• Shrimp: Fresh peeled and deveined for easy prep I prefer large shrimp so they stay juicy
• Jerk seasoning: Brings the spicy island flavor Look for one with allspice and scotch bonnet for true Jamaican taste
• Butter and olive oil: This combo adds both richness and helps get a golden sear on the shrimp
• Onion and garlic: The classic flavor base Choose a firm onion and fresh garlic cloves for max aroma
• Red and yellow bell peppers: Sweet crunch and classic Rasta color Use firm peppers with glossy skin
• Heavy cream: Delivers the silky sauce Use real cream for depth and thickness
• Chicken or vegetable broth: Adds savory background Opt for low sodium so you control the salt
• Parmesan cheese: Salty and umami go for block parmesan and grate it fresh
• Green onions: Brings a freshness and color Slice just before serving for best texture
• Fresh parsley: Adds herb brightness flat-leaf parsley works best
• Lime juice: Brightens and balances the creamy sauce Use a ripe lime and roll before cutting to get maximum juice
• Salt and pepper: Adjust to bring all the flavors together Taste before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a strong boil Add the penne and cook until al dente about ten minutes Taste to check for just a slight bite Drain well and reserve some pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later

Season and Cook the Shrimp:

Pat the shrimp dry and toss them thoroughly with jerk seasoning Heat butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium high When the butter foams add the shrimp in a single layer Sear for about two minutes per side until they are pink and just cooked through Remove the shrimp so they do not overcook

Sauté Aromatics and Peppers:

In the same skillet with the remaining oil sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until soft and fragrant about one to two minutes Add the red and yellow peppers and cook three or four minutes until slightly softened but still bright

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and broth stirring to blend Scrape the bottom of the pan to get all the flavorful bits Simmer gently for three or four minutes until the sauce just starts to thicken Add the Parmesan cheese and stir well until smooth and rich

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the drained pasta into the skillet Gently toss and coat every piece in the creamy sauce If the sauce looks thick add reserved pasta water a splash at a time for your perfect texture

Finish and Serve:

Return the shrimp to the pan along with green onions and lime juice Stir everything together to blend Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan Serve right away for best flavor and texture

Save

My favorite part may be the hit of lime at the end My sister and I laughed for ages after trying this recipe for the first time since we could not stop eating it straight from the pan The colors always make it a hit at the table

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to freshen up the sauce Leftover rasta pasta actually makes a tasty cold lunch

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the shrimp for chicken breast or even tofu for a different protein Choose coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy free version If you do not have fresh parsley fresh basil or cilantro also works

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp side salad to offset the richness of the pasta A wedge of lime on the side allows everyone to adjust the brightness to their liking Garlic bread is classic for mopping up every bit of sauce

Save

Cultural or Historical Context

Rasta Pasta is a true culinary blend inspired by Jamaican flavors and Italian comfort food The green yellow and red peppers not only look beautiful but also reflect the colors of the Rastafari flag This dish combines the joy of spice with creamy satisfaction

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne is ideal due to its sturdy shape and ability to hold creamy sauce and vibrant shrimp.

→ Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, add pre-cooked shrimp at the very end just to heat through, avoiding overcooking and dryness.

→ How spicy is jerk seasoning?

Jerk seasoning has moderate heat with aromatic spices. Adjust to your taste by using less or extra as desired.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or coconut milk are good substitutes for a lighter or dairy-free version, while still keeping it creamy.

→ How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap shrimp for mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth to enjoy a fully vegetarian twist on this pasta.